Rimšēvičs and co-defendant deny guilt in closing statements as verdict nears

The criminal case against former Bank of Latvia governor Ilmārs Rimšēvičs and businessman Māris Martinsons, both charged with bribery-related offenses, is nearing its conclusion in the second, appellate court instance.

On Monday, the appeals court began hearing the defendants' closing statements, the procedural stage that typically precedes the reading of a verdict. In their statements to the court, both men denied the charges brought against them.

Earlier ruling

A first-instance court had previously found both Rimšēvičs and Martinsons guilty of the crimes they were charged with. Following that ruling, the case moved to the appellate instance, where proceedings are now drawing to a close.

What happens next

After hearing the closing statements, the appellate court must prepare and announce its own verdict, which is expected soon. The bribery case involving the former central bank chief has for years been one of the most closely watched criminal proceedings in Latvia.